What is essential to have in the car for a trip to Greece: a complete guide through rules and penalties

Are you planning a car trip to Greece? Besides your passport and reservation, it is crucial to know what your vehicle must contain in order to avoid fines at the border or during the journey.

Important: During the year 2025, Greek authorities have intensified traffic controls, especially during the tourist season. Police across Greece now more frequently check if drivers possess all the required equipment - not only at the borders, but also within the country, especially on highways and around popular resorts.

Below is a detailed guide through the mandatory equipment in the car according to Greek regulations, as well as information on possible penalties if the law is not followed.

Mandatory equipment in the car in Greece

According to Greek laws, every vehicle must have the following equipment:

  1. First aid kit - it must be complete and in good condition.
  2. Fire extinguisher - at least one functional extinguisher, usually portable weighing 1 kg.
  3. Warning triangle - used in case of breakdown or accident.
  4. Reflective vest - recommended for all passengers, especially the driver.
  5. Spare tire or tire repair kit - depending on the type of vehicle.
  6. Spare bulbs - especially for vehicles without LED lights (not legally required, but recommended).
  7. Headlamp beam deflectors - mandatory for vehicles with headlights adjusted for the left side of the road.

Penalties for lack of mandatory equipment

During the summer season, Greek police often conduct checks, and the fines are far from symbolic:

  • Fire extinguisher: a fine of €80 with the possibility of temporary driving ban until the equipment is provided.
  • First aid kit and warning triangle: also mandatory. Fines range from €40 to €80.
  • Reflective vest: not legally required, but recommended for safety.
  • Other equipment (spare tire, bulbs, cables, etc.): not explicitly required by law, but the absence can create additional problems in case of breakdown.

Why is a fire extinguisher so crucial?

Although many drivers carry it only because it is legally required, a fire extinguisher can literally save lives and property. Imagine the following situations:

  • Engine overheating during a long drive on a hot day can cause flames under the hood.
  • Electrical malfunction in the installation can lead to sparking and cable ignition.
  • Fuel leakage after a minor collision can result in the vehicle catching fire within seconds.
  • If you carry extra load, brake overload can cause friction and fire.

In all these situations, quick access to a proper fire extinguisher can prevent the spread of fire until the relevant services arrive. The extinguisher must be easily accessible - ideally under the passenger’s seat - and always within the valid period.

Check everything before traveling!

Before you embark on your journey, we advise you to ensure that your car has all the mandatory and recommended equipment. If anything is missing, we recommend acquiring it in advance.
Our advice: visit SafetyShop.rs - a reliable online store where you can find complete equipment for your car:

  • fire extinguishers,
  • safety vests,
  • first aid kits,
  • as well as various safety accessories.

The promotion with excellent prices lasts until the end of August!

In addition to the online shop, you can also purchase equipment at one of the Safety Shop stores located at the following addresses:

  1. Cara Dušana 214, Zemun,
  2. Sarajevska 39, Belgrade,
  3. Zrenjaninski put 99, Borča,

A few more travel tips

Greek law, as well as common sense, dictate that the car should also have:

  • battery cables (the battery can fail without warning);
  • snow chains (mandatory in certain seasons and regions);
  • spare tire with a jack and tools;
  • all necessary documents (registration, insurance, road assistance numbers);

In case of an accident, place the warning triangle at a sufficient distance and always wear a reflective vest. The fire extinguisher should be easily accessible and within the valid period**.**

Greek regulations are not complicated, but they must be adhered to, just like anywhere else. The fines are high, and safety comes first. Prepare your vehicle in advance and enjoy a carefree vacation!
Don’t forget that you can easily and affordably obtain the mandatory car equipment through the website SafetyShop.rs.

Read more about traffic regulations here:
Traffic regulations in Greece
Traffic rules in Greece

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